Brachycephalic dogs — those with flat faces and shortened airways — face airline
restrictions unlike any other breed type. This guide explains why airlines restrict
these breeds, which carriers ban them entirely, and what your options are if you
own a French Bulldog, Pug, or English Bulldog.
What Does Brachycephalic Mean?
Brachycephalic means "short-skulled." Breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs,
Boston Terriers, and Persian cats have been selectively bred for flat faces, which compresses
their airways. At altitude, reduced cabin pressure and oxygen levels compound existing
breathing difficulties.
The result: these breeds are at significantly higher risk of respiratory distress and
heat stroke during air travel. Several airlines have reported in-flight deaths of
brachycephalic dogs, which led to industry-wide policy changes starting around 2018.
Airlines That Ban Snub-Nosed Breeds
The following airlines ban brachycephalic breeds from both cabin and cargo:
British Airways — no snub-nosed breeds in hold or cabin
Aer Lingus — no brachycephalic breeds permitted
Lufthansa — brachycephalic breeds banned from cargo
KLM — brachycephalic breeds banned from cargo
Singapore Airlines — no snub-nosed breeds in hold
Qantas — brachycephalic breeds banned from cargo hold
Policies change. Always check directly with your airline.
Airlines That Allow Snub-Nosed Breeds (with restrictions)
Some airlines permit brachycephalic breeds in cabin under strict conditions:
Air Canada — allows some breeds in-cabin if under weight limit; specific breeds may be excluded
United Airlines — cabin allowed for small breeds; check current breed list
Delta Airlines — allows cabin travel for some brachycephalic breeds with weight limits
Even where allowed, these breeds face higher in-flight risk. Consult your vet before booking.
Summer Embargoes
Many airlines that allow brachycephalic breeds in winter impose seasonal bans during summer
months (typically May–September) due to heat risk on tarmac and in cargo holds. Even in
climate-controlled holds, ground delays can cause dangerous temperature spikes.
Brachycephalic means 'short-skulled' — these breeds have flat faces and shortened airways. At altitude, reduced oxygen and stress can trigger respiratory distress, which is why airlines restrict them.
Which airlines ban snub-nosed dogs completely?
British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Lufthansa ban brachycephalic breeds from both cabin and cargo. Many other European and Middle Eastern carriers have similar policies. Always check the current policy with your specific airline.
Which airlines allow snub-nosed dogs in the cabin?
Air Canada, United, and Delta allow some brachycephalic breeds in cabin with weight restrictions, though policies change — verify before booking. No airline guarantees safe travel for brachycephalic breeds.
Are snub-nosed cats also restricted?
Yes — Persian, Himalayan, and Burmese cats are subject to similar restrictions as flat-faced dogs on many airlines.
Ready to check your specific route?
Use our full requirements tool to look up import rules, airline policies, and documents
for any country pair and pet type.